Tag: Seat

SEAT Leon Estate receives a recognition at Parkers New Car Awards 2021

SEAT has added one more trophy to its vast collection by winning the “Best Medium Family Car” award with the Leon Estate at the Parkers New Car Awards 2021.

The vehicle has already What Car?’s ‘Family Car of the Year’ accolade as well as Caravan & Motorhome Club’s Tow Car of the Year, and because of its elegance and advanced technologies, now adds an additional prize to its collection.

In a world becoming increasingly overrun by SUVs, it’s easy to assume that they make the best family cars. That’s not always the case – and while excellent estate cars like the SEAT Leon remain on sale, the answer has to be ‘no’, commented Keith Adams, Editor at Parkers.

For one, although it’s sleek and good looking, the Leon Estate’s luggage area is enormous and usable, while there’s ample passenger space for five. Add in some excellent finance deals, high levels of standard kit and sporty handling, and you’re left with a winning formula.

SEAT Leon line-up offers consumers one of the broadest range of choices on the market, two bodystyles (hatch and estate), four engine variants (petrol, mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid and diesel), ranging from 110PS to 204PS, as well as six fully-loaded trims (SE, SE Dynamic, FR, FR Sport, Xcellence and Xcellence Lux) and an extensive range of ten colours means there’s a Leon for everyone, no matter their needs.

SEE ALSO: New Fiat 500 is named Best Small Electric Car by Parkers

The Leon Estate range starts from £22,050 for the SE 1.0 TSI Evo 110PS model, rising to £37,605 for the Xcellence Lux 1.4 e-HYBRID 204PS variant.

Richard Harrison, Managing Director of SEAT UK, said: The SEAT Leon Estate is the prime example of how an SUV is not necessarily the only option for families looking for a spacious interior,and storage capacity. Within a highly competitive market, it is fantastic to see the Leon Estate take the top spot, proving that there is no need to sacrifice the sporty and dynamic driving experience of the Leon for the practicalities of a family car.

September 27, 2021
SEAT Leon and Ateca models are the great winners at the What Car? Tow Car Awards

New SEAT Leon and Ateca models are the winners at this year’s What Car? Tow Car Awards for Leon in the “Up to 1400kg” category, and the Ateca in the ‘1550–1699kg’ group.

The new SEAT Leon comes with an elegant new design and an enhanced suite of advanced technologies. Available with petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, the vehicle can also be greately personalized in numerous ways.

Steve Huntingford, Editor at What Car?, said: Stability is the most important thing when towing, and it can be in short supply when a car is light. However, despite being one of the lightest and most affordable models tested this year, the Leon punches well above its weight, pulling a caravan straight and true at 60mph and beyond. Meanwhile, our practicality testers were impressed by the neatly installed retractable tow ball – not a feature you expect from a car at this price.

At the same time, the Ateca model brings some freshness to the mid-size SUV market with its perfect blend between urban capabilities and off-road setup. The model was recognized for its agile drivetrain system and the 4WD system, all along with the revised DSG-auto gearbox.

SEE ALSO: Fiat presents the new 500X Dolcevita model

Commenting on the Ateca’s win, Steve said: Towing also comes easily to the Ateca. Its 2.0 TDI 150PS engine has all the pull you might need to handle any sensibly matched caravan. And even when cruising at the UK towing limit the Ateca feels in complete control.

A real bonus is how enjoyable to drive both cars are when they don’t have a caravan on the back, given that most tow car drivers will spend far more time in everyday driving than towing.

September 17, 2021
SEAT will debut new Ibiza and Arona at the British Motor Show

New SEAT Ibiza and Arona models will make their UK debut with SMC Motor Group at this year’s British Motor Show. Both vehicles are already available to order and come with numerous features and an extended list of standard features.

The new Ibiza offers many changes, compared to older models, and offers new alloy wheels, full LED exterior lights, and a choice of two new body colors: Sapphire Blue and Asphalt Blue.

As it comes to the Arona, it is available with Sapphire Blue, Asphalt Blue, and Dark Camouflage, and LED interior lighting, exclusive trimming, and an advanced infotainment system.

James Kimber, Managing Director of SMC Motor Group, commented: We are very excited to be attending the British Motor Show this year with the first UK models of the new SEAT Ibiza and Arona. The show is a great opportunity to showcase the newest cars we have to offer, and the new SEAT Arona and Ibiza come with a host of the latest technologies and design features. We look forward to welcoming visitors to experience the new versions of these popular SEAT models for themselves.

As we know, SMC Motor Group will also be exhibiting the SEAT Leon e-HYBRID PHEV machine, and manufacturers will talk about the vehicle with all the enthusiasts at the show.

August 18, 2021
SEAT boost the appeal of Ateca and Tarraco lineups

SEAT team adds new technology to the mid-size and large SUVs, the Ateca and Tarraco models for the 2022 model year.

Ateca XPERIENCE Lux now comes with the brand’s Pre-Crash Assist safety system as part of the standard equipment. The way the system works is quite smart – it uses the data from the forward-facing camera and prepares the occupants inside the vehicle for an oncoming collision by tightening the seatbelts and closing the windows, and also reduces the overall car speed by activating the emergency braking system.

Also, the Ateca XPERIENCE Lux will offer a sporty leather steering wheel and gear-shift paddles, all in addition to the autonomous braking system.

As it comes to the Tarraco model, it benefits from SEAT Connect as a standard feature and from Adaptive Cruise Control and different pricing plans.

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen presents details about the new 2022 Tiguan lineup

The Tarraco continues to impress both brand skeptics and enthusiasts with its tons of recognitions and won awards. And in this manner continues to take home prestigious prizes – Best Large SUV, Best Used SUV of the Year, and 2021 What Car? Winner is some of the many awards.

August 4, 2021
CUPRA presents new models for the Formentor and Leon lineups

The CUPRA family continues to expand with new variants for the Formentor and Leon Estate versions. This time Formentor lineup is extended with a selection of petrol and Plug-In Hybrid powertrains. The first one is e-HYBRID DSG-auto 204hp. This variant is the most efficient in the range and delivers up to 235.4mpg on the combined WLTP cycle and 27g/km CO2 emissions.

This hybrid is paired with a 1.4-liter TSI petrol engine that generates a total of 116hp and together 330Nm of torque – enough to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.8 seconds and chase a top speed of 127mph.

On the other hand, Formentor TSI DSG-auto 4Drive 190 offers buyers an advanced four-wheel-drive system and a revised 2.0-liter TSI petrol unit. It is available in two trim levels with an extended list of standard features.

The final addition to the Formentor is the TSI DSG-auto version with 245hp and 2.0-liter TSI petrol unit.

Equipment goodies include exclusive alloy wheels, nappa leather, heated seats, power driver seats, leather dashboard, door inserts and trim panels, sporty upgrades like a rear diffuser, bucket seats, dynamic chassis control, sporty suspension system, and numerous more.

SEE ALSO: Mazda MX-5 wins 2021 Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own Award

Equipment options vary depending on the trim level.

Source: Seat

May 3, 2021
SEAT reveals details for new Leon Hatch and Estate models

SEAT further expands its range and reveals technical data for the new Leon lineup, brand’s best-selling model.

The new Leon Hatch 2.0 TSI DSG-auto 190hp and the Estate 2.0 TDI 115PS version come with up to 42.2mpg and CO2 emissions of 151g/km. The vehicle is capable of reaching 100km/h in 7.4 seconds and has a top speed of 144mph.

Furthermore, both models can be specified in FR Sport XCELLENCE and XCELLENCE Lux trims.

FR Hatch trim comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, sporty suspension, ambient lighting, SEAT drive profile selection, rain sensing wipers, Full Link Smartphone integration and dark-tinted rear windows.

On the other hand, XCELLENCE trim level offers electric folding door mirrors, keyless entry, heated front seats, heated steering wheel and 17-inch alloys.

Last, but not least, XCELLENCE Lux builds on XCELLENCE and adds leather upholstery, dynamic road sign display, High Beam Assist and predictive Adaptive Cruise Control.

As it comes to Leon Estate, it can also be specified in these trim levels and offers a top speed of 124mph and acceleration capability measured at 10.5 seconds for a 0-100km/h sprint. The engine offers up to 65.7mpg and CO2 emissions of 114g/km.

SEE ALSO: Honda announces new Special Editions for the Talon and Pioneer lineups

Both models can also be specified in Asphalt Blue, Magnetic Grey and Midnight Black.

Source: SEAT

April 7, 2021
SEAT Leon e-HYBRID

The SEAT Leon e-HYBRID, a plug-in hybrid which recently opened for order, has been confirmed to benefit from a Benefit in Kind (BiK) rating of just six per cent and ultra-competitive total cost of ownership.

The ultra-low BiK rating, applicable to plug-in hybrids with an electric-only range of at least 40 miles, is available with Leon e-HYBRID FR and XCELLENCE.

It is anticipated that this low BiK rating will prove attractive for fleet and company car buyers alike, giving the Leon a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of just 30.0p per mile and a strong residual value of 40 per cent after 3 years and 60,000 miles.

The P11D value for Leon e-HYBRID starts from £30,915 (P11D) for the FR trim which benefits from FR styling, digital cockpit, full-link smart phone integration, connected car technology, wireless phone charging, three zone climate control and Park Assist.

Leon e-HYBRID XCELLENCE has a P11D value of £32,905 and adds a host of luxury features such as Microsuede upholstery, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, rear view camera, Advanced keyless entry and start, and Lane Assist.

The e-HYBRID drivetrain combines a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine with an electric motor and six-speed DSG transmission, resulting in a total power output of 204PS and a 0-62mph time of 7.5 seconds.

Both Leon e-HYBRID FR and XCELLENCE produce CO2 emissions of 27g/km and a combined WLTP fuel consumption figure of 217.3-235.4mpg.

Power is supplied to the electric motor via a 13kWh lithium-ion battery back which is recharged via a 3.6kW AC inlet. This enables Leon e-HYBRID to be fully charged from 0% in less than 3.5 hours.

The new Leon e-HYBRID is the first of a number of new plug-in hybrid vehicles from both the SEAT and CUPRA brands as part of an electrification offensive. The CUPRA Leon e-HYBRID and CUPRA Formentor e-HYBRID will arrive in the UK in the first quarter of 2021, followed by the SEAT Tarraco e-HYBRID in the second half of the year.

The all-new Leon is designed, developed and built at SEAT’s facilities in Martorell, Barcelona.

January 21, 2021
JMS tuning

As a result of the global corona pandemic, a year with practically no tuning fairs and meetings. After the Tuning World Bodensee in Friedrichshafen and the PS Days in Hanover, also the undisputed highlight of the year of the refinement and customization industry, the Essen Motor Show, was canceled, so that the community in this extraordinary season – apart from a few smaller events – practically only could come together online. How relatively this “only” can be rated, however, was shown by the tuning specialists at JMS Fahrzeugteile by hosting a mega-tuning event on the last Saturday of November and sending it out into the world via a professional live stream from the large forging hall of Motorworld Manufaktur Metzingen.

In front of the great backdrop of the historic industrial building, JMS Managing Director Jochen Schweiker and especially presenter William De Fensfoster from d-fens.tv presented products and project vehicles from JMS customers, suppliers and business partners to the livestream viewers – even some world premieres were unveiled.

For example, the suspension experts from KW suspensions rolled a Lamborghini Huracán with the brand new Variant 5 coilover suspension into the colorful spotlight of the forge hall, which was also equipped with an exclusive Novitec finish: In addition to a Torado N-Largo kit, the Italian fighting bull was wearing 9×20- and 12.5×21-inch rims with tires of the dimensions 245/30R20 and 325/25R21.

ST suspensions, also a brand of the KW universe, presented the ST XTA Plus 3 coilover kit with 3-way adjustment as a world premiere. This was already installed in a Focus ST with 19-inch Motec MCR2 ultralight wheels.

One of the program highlights was undoubtedly the world premiere of the two new wheel designs from the Barracuda Racing Wheels brand sold by JMS: The new “Dragoon” design from the Barracuda Ultralight Series was already installed on a VW Golf, while the Nissan Silvia drift car from the Drift Team “Driftinglele ” rolled on the new Barracuda motorsport rim “Summa”. Both wheels will be available in three different colors from next spring.

JMS Fahrzeugteile presented various tuning conversions, the focus of which was on different segments, such as chassis technology, exhaust technology, body kits, wheels and much more. Particularly impressive: vehicles created as joint projects, for example in cooperation with KW, Eisenmann, Friedrich Motorsport, Senner Tuning, TR Exclusive, cardiologie and Schwabenfolia, such as a BMW M2 Competition, a Ford Focus ST or a 360 hp Cupra Leon ST.

The exhaust gas experts from Eisenmann Exhaust provided the audience with technical information about their exhaust systems and presented a 3-series BMW of the current generation G20 with Oxigin alloy wheels and a Z4 with gasoline particle filter as project vehicles. As a world premiere, Eisenmann had brought new tailpipe variants.

The “Multimedia” tuning segment was not neglected either: the Gladen car hi-fi specialists presented various components, illustrated by vehicles such as the BMW X5, Tesla Model 3, Hyundai i30 N or Mercedes-AMG A 35.

RaceChip presented an increase in performance via a chip tuning box for the new Golf 8 and provided interesting information about the product range.

December 10, 2020

A new benchmark in the performance SUV category: CUPRA Formentor prices and specifications announced

CUPRA Formentor1

CUPRA has announced final specifications and pricing for the first vehicle designed specifically for the brand, the Formentor coupé SUV, as the order books open.

The new flagship model, which delivers high-performance thanks to the 2.0-litre TSI 310PS 4Drive engine, accelerates from 0-62mph in just 4.9 seconds, costs £39,830 on-the-road. Alternatively, customers can purchase the 310PS Formentor VZ2 from £399 per month on Solutions Personal Contract Plan (PCP).

Formentor has been curated to include a long equipment list as standard across six highly-specified trims, named V1, V2, VZ1, VZ2, VZ3 and VZ Edition. As standard on V1 trim, customers get 18-inch alloy wheels, 12-inch infotainment touchscreen with connected navigation, 10-inch digital driver binnacle, LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, Adaptive Cruise Control, wireless smartphone charger, a leather steering wheel and rear parking sensors, all as standard. The name VZ comes from the word ‘Veloz’ in Spanish, translating as ‘Speed’ or ‘Fast’.

To ensure CUPRA remains accessible to all, Formentor is available with a 150PS TSI engine, either with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG automatic transmission. Prices will start from £27,300* for the 150PS TSI manual V1 model.

On average, CAP HPI predicts Formentor will retain 44 per cent of its value during the course of typical ownership, on a par with established premium brands.

Engine line-up
The CUPRA Formentor engine line-up is comprised of five outputs, all of which are RDE2 certified. The 1.5-litre TSI engine is available as a 150PS while the 2.0-litre TSI will be offered as a 190PS.

For drivers that want the dramatic design of a CUPRA with eco-conscious performance, the Plug-in Hybrid Variant will be available. A 1.4-litre TSI 150PS (110kW) petrol engine is paired to a 115PS (85kW) electric motor, powered by a 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack, can be tuned to either 204PS or 245PS. The eHybrid has a predicted electric-only range of 31miles (50km).

Both the 1.5-litre and 1.4-litre plug-in variants will be available to order in the UK from quarter one 2021.

At the top of the range is the 2.0-litre TSI DSG-auto 4Drive model, generating 310PS of peak power and 400Nm of torque.

Formentor has been designed and engineered to deliver a performance-orientated drive, delivered, in part, by the front MacPherson struts and multi-link rear suspension set-up to enable the intuitive dynamic response required during enthusiastic driving.

The new CUPRA coupé SUV also features Adaptive Chassis Control (DCC)***, which constantly monitors the road surfaces and driver inputs and makes imperceptible changes to guarantee surefootedness in any condition while delivering the most engaging drive. The DCC slider gives even more control over the dynamic characteristics of the vehicle, changing not only the damping force level of the shock absorber but the chassis controller setting too.

The 4Drive models utilise an electro-hydraulic multi-disc traction system that analyses road conditions in real time delivering power to the wheels with the most traction. Torque can even be controlled across the axle thanks to the EDS electronic aid, which locks the slipping wheel, meaning no transversal torque is lost. The system is integrated into the rear axle and sits at the end of the drive shaft in front of the rear differential, improving weight distribution and reducing inertia and reaction time, meaning the new CUPRA Formentor provides surefootedness behind the wheel.

Model	CO2 (g/km, WLTP)	Fuel econ. (mpg, WLTP)	On-the-road price
Formentor VZ2 TSI DSG-auto 4Drive 310PS	193	31.4-33.2	£39,830
Formentor VZ3 TSI DSG-auto 4Drive 310PS	194	31.4-32.8	£42,200
Formentor VZ Edition TSI DSG-auto 4Drive 310PS	193	31.4-33.2	£43,840

Deliveries to the first UK customers will commence before the end of 2020.

Specification
Befitting the CUPRA name and the equipment included within, Formentor can be specified in one of six highly-specified trims, each carefully curated to deliver a blend of performance, technology and design.

Formentor benefits from a wide colour palette chosen to complement the design: there are four soft metallic paints (Urban Silver, Midnight Black, Magnetic Tech and Candy White); three premium paints (Graphene Grey, Dark Camouflage and Desire Red) as well as two matte paint options (Petrol Blue Matte and Magnetic Tech Matte).

November 19, 2020

Seat adds range-topping 1.5-litre TSI engine with DSG transmission to the Arona line-up

SEAT is adding to the Arona range with the introduction of a 1.5-liter TSI engine available exclusively with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission.

The new engine option will be the most powerful in the Arona line-up, boasting a 0-62mph time of just 8.2seconds and a top speed of 130mph**.

Even with the extra performance, the 1.5 TSI DSG delivers up to 45.6mpg of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions as low as 140g/km based on the combined WLTP cycle.

The new powertrain is RDE2 compliant, meaning it meets the Euro-6d Final emissions standards and emits less than 60mg/km of NOx.

Available on the FR and FR Sport trim, this latest addition to the range will be the sportiest Arona on offer and comes with outstanding levels of equipment as standard.

FR trim includes full LED headlights and taillights, SEAT Drive Profile with four different modes, FR sports seats, electric folding side mirrors, rear parking sensors, Full Link smartphone integration, and wireless phone charging.

FR Sport adds 18” ‘Performance’ alloy wheels, microsuede upholstery, a digital cockpit, and heated front seats.

Richard Harrison, Managing Director, SEAT UK, commented: “SEAT is constantly looking to evolve its model line-up based on innovation and consumer demand; with the market continuing to shift towards automatic transmissions, it was time to add a new engine option available with the DSG dual-clutch transmission.”

The SEAT Arona is the brand’s small SUV and is designed, developed, and produced in Barcelona, at the brand’s Martorell facilities.

October 23, 2020
Seat Ateca named what car? Used car of the year

The SEAT Ateca has been named Used Car of the Year at the 2021 What Car? Used Car Awards.

The coveted award is the latest of a number already in the SEAT Ateca’s trophy cabinet, which was also named Small SUV of the Year by What Car? shortly after its launch in 2016.

The Ateca has since earned critical acclaim from across the industry, while orders have recently opened for the New SEAT Ateca in September.

With 18 What Car? Used Car of the Year categories up for grab, a panel of experts considered the all-round ability, value, and the availability of desirable versions to select the eventual winners, with the Ateca named the overall winner.

In particular, What Car? praised the Ateca for offering one of the most enjoyable driving experiences in its class, without compromising on ride comfort, alongside a unique combination of all-round desirability, practicality, and outstanding value for money.

As an overall winner, the Ateca was also named Family SUV of the Year while its smaller sibling, the Arona, brought home the Best Used Small SUV award.

Similar to its bigger brother, the Arona was recognized for its outstanding driving experience as well as class-leading practicality.

The awards build on SEAT’s established recognition in the used car market, with the previous generation Leon also being named What Car?’s Used Car of the Year in 2018.

Mark Pearson, Haymarket Automotive’s Used Cars Editor, said: “Here is an immensely likable family SUV that can now be bought for under half what you’d need to buy one new. None of the other category winners could match its combination of all-round desirability, practicality, and excellent value for money. It’s great to drive, too, with top-notch handling and a range of punchy and efficient engines. On top of that, it’s comfortable, reliable and its interior is both spacious and well equipped.”

Richard Harrison, SEAT UK Managing Director, said: “SEAT entered a new era with the launch of its first-ever SUV, the Ateca, which brought some much-needed fun and sizzle into the SUV segment. That winning formula, also since mirrored with its Arona and Tarraco SUV siblings, has taken the UK market by storm, with consistently strong demand for Ateca in the new and used car markets.”

“It’s tremendous the strengths of our SUV range is being recognized in the used car market and shows SEAT is leading the way with offering a lasting quality product, that puts a smile on your face for many years. These awards give further confidence to used car customers that they can rely on SEAT cars to deliver class-leading design, driver-appeal, engineering, and technology.”

Purchasing an Approved Used Ateca or Arona from a SEAT retailer ensures the buyer gets a full-service history check and comprehensive multipoint check with every car, minimum 12-month Warranty, and Roadside Assistance, along with a 12 month MOT protection policy worth up to £750. Customers also benefit from complimentary five-day Drive Away Insurance and a 30-day exchange promise if the vehicle does not meet expectations.

Customers that purchase an Approved Used SEAT from a participating retailer will benefit from an extra year of Approved Warranty and MOT protection, be able to purchase two services for £79, as well as take advantage of a 6.9 percent APR finance offer on all vehicles up to five years old.

October 21, 2020
CUPRA starts production of the new Formentor

CUPRA has today started production of the new Formentor, the first vehicle designed and developed uniquely for the brand.

The CUPRA Formentor will be available to order in the UK from Tuesday 20th October, starting with the 2.0-liter 310PS petrol engine, and followed by other engines including the plug-in hybrid variant.

The CUPRA Formentor becomes the sixth model to be produced in Martorell (Barcelona), which has returned to its pre-pandemic production rate. Initial production of Formentor will begin with 160 units per day, however, it will eventually represent more than 10 percent of manufacturing volume at the plant once it is at full production rate.

In total, manufacturing the Formentor includes 3,000 workers on Line Two of the plant, across three shifts.

Wayne Griffiths, SEAT and CUPRA President, commented: “The new Formentor is a big step for CUPRA. As its first uniquely developed car, it will make the brand grow, be more visible and more desirable. We aim to exceed our initial goal of doubling CUPRA’s sales volume with the launch of this car and break into new markets thanks to its wide range of engines. I am convinced that this model will change the future of the CUPRA brand.”

A pillar for CUPRA
The Formentor is a key pillar in CUPRA’s strategy. With this new model, the brand plans to consolidate itself in the major European markets and enter new markets. CUPRA will also expand its intercontinental footprint across new Latin American markets, as well as Turkey and Israel.

Formentor is the first model to be homologated under the CUPRA brand, joining the CUPRA Ateca and CUPRA Leon, with all three entering the UK in quarter four 2020. Since 2018, CUPRA has sold more than 55,000 units globally. Both CUPRA Formentor and CUPRA Leon will be available in the UK with plug-in hybrid powertrains and will be joined in 2021 by the all-electric CUPRA el-Born.

All CUPRA vehicles will be sold via a dedicated network of retailers, reaching almost 520 specialists globally by the end of the year.

A Formentor for ter Stegen
The keys to the first Formentor were handed over to FC Barcelona and CUPRA global ambassador, Marc Ter Stegen.

The German goalkeeper, Marc Ter Stegen, commented: “Since I saw the Formentor for the first time I was convinced to start a collaboration with CUPRA, as I strongly identify with its sporty spirit and sophisticated design. I appreciate the attention to detail, and the Formentor combines all the elements I look for in a vehicle. I’m looking forward to driving it on the streets of Barcelona.”

The CUPRA Formentor marks the brand’s entry into the CUV segment, which is expected to double its market share in Europe over the next five years. This high-performance crossover, which is named after the iconic cape of the island of Mallorca, combines the brand’s own DNA with cutting-edge technology, striking exterior design, and high-performance engines.

UK specification and pricing of the CUPRA Formentor will be announced on the 20th of October 2020, when the order books open.

October 19, 2020